Ferry Beach – Scarborough

Ferry Beach in Scarborough is one of the most dog-friendly beaches you'll find, but there are some things to know before you go.

Ferry Beach in Scarborough Dog-Friendly Beach Details

The time of day is as important as the time of year when it comes to bringing your dog to Ferry Beach in Scarborough.

May 15 - Labor Day

No dogs are allowed on the beach from 9:00 am to 5:00 pm. Dogs can be off leash in the morning, between dawn and 9:00 am. After 5:00 pm, dogs can be on leash only and not past 30 minutes after sunset.

Day after Labor Day - May 14

You'll get a lot of freedom during this time, as dogs can be on the beach on or off leash from dawn until 1:00 pm and the 3:00 pm until dusk. From 1:00 pm - 3:00 pm, dogs can be on the beach but must be on a leash.

Any time a dog is allowed off-leash, the owner must keep the dog within sight and under total voice control (meaning they come immediately when called).

Piping Plover Dog Beach Restrictions: April 1 - Day After Labor Day

To protect the endangered Piping Plover nests, the area of Ferry Beach to the left of the parking lot (assuming you are facing the water) is off-limits to dogs during this time. (See slideshow above for map)

Any Piping Plover nest located elsewhere requires dogs to be kept at a 200-foot distance.

As you round the bend at Ferry Rock, you'll be on Maine Audubon Society land, and dogs must on a leash at all times.

Horses on Ferry Beach

Horses are allowed from October 1 through March 31 but must have a permit from either Scarborough or Old Orchard Beach. Horses and riders are restricted to the intertidal zone. Horses and carriages should also have their own waste collector attached, and horse droppings should never hit the beach.

Ferry Beach in Scarborough Dog-Friendly Beach Amenities

This white, sandy beach is secluded from main roads and offers a generous parking lot with trash cans to dispose of pet waste. You must carry pet waste bags with you at all times on the beach and pick up waste immediately. Carry it with you until you find a trash can. Do not bag and drop the waste on the beach or rocks.

Dogs who like to ride kayaks or SUPs will love this paddle-friendly portion of the beach. The cove provides gentle waters and little surf.

You'll need to bring your own fresh water, though summer restrooms are open, and winter guests have portable toilets to use.

Is Ferry Beach in Scarborough Safe for Dogs?

The calm waters and isolated area of this beach make jittery dogs a little calmer. Since it is a bay and the last touchstone of the Nonesuch River before it heads out to sea, it's important to check the Maine Healthy Beaches Dashboard from Memorial Day to Labor Day to check water quality.

We love the safety of the parking lot to load and unload, but you are still required to keep dogs on a leash while doing so and until you get to the beach.

WARNING: Too many people have been violating the dog leash rules at Ferry Beach and Western Beach, which is leading to a crackdown and more citations being issued.

Parking at Ferry Beach in Scarborough

The parking lot is open to anyone, and fees of $15 per car are collected each day from 8:00 am to 4:00 pm. If you arrive at 3:00 pm, you'll pay just $5.

Those in an RV, bus, or camper will pay $45 a day.

Residential seasonal permits are available only by going to the Scarborough Town Hall.

What’s Near Ferry Beach in Scarborough

Scarborough Beach State Park is nearby, but as a state park, it has a different set of dog-friendly rules.

Ferry Beach in Scarborough Dog-Friendly Beach Rating: A